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High-Performance Synthetic Waxes for a Sustainable Packaging Ecosystem
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This study evaluated high-performance synthetic waxes as coating materials for sustainable packaging, examining their barrier properties, biodegradability, and performance relative to conventional plastic-based coatings.
Packaging Papers commonly incorporate paraffin waxes to meet the requirements of water and oil resistance. However, such wax-coated paper is difficult to recycle and also has a lower biodegradation rate. The aim of this study is to develop biobased waxes that provide necessary packaging functions while also retaining biodegradation and repulping capabilities at the end of their use. This study demonstrates the synthesis and performance evaluation of biobased and biodegradable synthetic waxes with the potential for repulpability. The biodegradation and repulping of these waxes are ensured by incorporating lactic/glycolic linkages into their structure. The obtained waxes are applied onto kraft paper, and the resulting coated paper is evaluated for its thermal, mechanical, and water/oil resistance. In addition, the synthetic waxes were also added to a few percent of natural waxes and evaluated for their better performance. Furthermore, the degradability of the waxes is also evaluated under mildly alkaline conditions to assess their suitability for repulping. This work will not only enhance green packaging but also meet green chemistry principles, such as waste prevention (no microplastics), the promotion of renewable feedstocks, and the design of biodegradable packaging.
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High Barrier Sustainable Paper Coating Based on Engineered Polysaccharides and Natural Rubber
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Researchers developed a paper-based food packaging coating using engineered polysaccharides and natural rubber that provides barrier performance approaching that of plastic films while being biodegradable and avoiding microplastic formation. The coating maintained oxygen and moisture barrier properties under stress conditions relevant to food shelf life.
Degradable Polymeric Waxes for Paper Coating Applications
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Scientists created degradable wax-like polymers that can coat paper packaging to make it water- and oil-resistant, offering an alternative to traditional plastic coatings. Unlike conventional plastic-coated paper, these coated papers can be broken down and recycled through standard paper repulping. This kind of innovation could help reduce the microplastic pollution that comes from plastic-coated packaging materials breaking down in the environment.
Bio-Based Materials for Packaging
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This review evaluates bio-based materials as sustainable alternatives for plastic packaging, examining the environmental performance, mechanical properties, and commercial viability of biopolymers in addressing the global plastic pollution crisis.
Current trends in biopolymers for food packaging: a review
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This review covers the latest developments in biopolymer-based food packaging, including biodegradable films, edible coatings, and active or smart packaging systems. Researchers found that while these sustainable alternatives show promise, they still face challenges in matching the moisture, heat, and barrier properties of conventional petroleum-based plastics. The study highlights ongoing efforts to improve these materials so they can realistically replace traditional plastic packaging.
Aqueous Dispersions from Wood-Derived Biopolymers for Barrier and Packaging Applications
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This thesis explored wood-derived biopolymers as sustainable alternatives to synthetic packaging polymers, examining their structural and barrier properties and their potential to replace polyethylene, PVC, and polystyrene in packaging applications while avoiding microplastic pollution.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.